February 27, 2017

LPP protects communications between solicitors and their clients from disclosure and is a cornerstone of the trusting relationship people expect when they share personal or commercial matters with a lawyer.

While LPP is vigorously protected by the courts and reflected in a range of legal provisions, recent proposals designed to combat crime, increase consumer choice or improve regulation have threatened to undermine these protections.

Law Society President, Robert Bourns said: “This growing trend to see LPP as something of an ‘inconvenience’ to be surrendered is a critical threat to the ability of clients to work openly and honestly with their solicitor, which is why the Law Society has responded so firmly in each case.

“While we have had considerable success working with government to find ways to meet its public policy objectives while protecting LPP, such as with amendments to the Investigatory Powers Bill, we cannot do this alone.

“The whole solicitor profession must make sure it understands LPP, that clients understand LPP and the rights it gives them.  Solicitors must uphold it in their work and be beyond reproach in their application of it if the justice system is to function properly.  Solicitors’ stewardship of LPP is intrinsic to the integrity and administration of justice.  This practice note provides solicitors with comprehensive guidance on how LPP operates, to help them do just that”.  To access the note, click here.